Dell Computer conducted research to identify consumer preferences with regard to laptop computers in terms of size, capabilities, storage, graphic cards, and colors. The company initiated multiple research studies and also utilized secondary data obtained through industry sources. The brand managers of Dell Computer next engaged in the process of evaluating the information for accuracy, resolving inconsistencies in the data, and determining how the company could utilize the information. This process of assessing and interpreting the gathered information is known as:
a. environmental analysis.
b. environmental research.
c. market analytics.
d. environmental forces.
Answer: a. environmental analysis